When you come across the word plastic surgery, you might imagine movie stars and fashion models trying to hide away imperfections or aging, or wanting to alter their look. Although they do encompass operations like these, plastic surgery far exceeds this imagery. Think of a little girl who needs to have her chin redone because a dog bit him, or a burn victim with scars all over, or a young lady with a conspicuous birthmark on her cheek – these too require plastic surgery.
What is plastic surgery, then? Do not take the term literally by thinking “artificial” or “fake”. Plastic surgery is related to reconstruction, repair, or replacement of physical defect. This surgery involves either the physical appearance, or function of certain body parts, or both. Plastic surgeons seek to improve the appearance of their patients and their ability to function through reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
There are two general types of plastic surgery: reconstructive plastic surgery and cosmetic plastic surgery.
Reconstructive Surgery
These are procedures that strive to correct the defects of the face or body. It corrects any physical feature that is deformed or abnormal (in so far as accepted standards are concerned), such as those due to birth defects, illness, congenital disorder, injury or trauma. These include cleft lip or palates, ear deformities, injuries from dog bites, burns, or alleviating aftermath of treatments (such as rebuilding breasts for breast cancer patients).
Cosmetic or Aesthetic Surgery
These procedures aim to improve the physical appearance of a patient by altering certain features, even if there are no deficiencies or abnormalities involved. Common cosmetic plastic surgery include breast augmentation or mammoplasty (and reduction mammoplasty), rhinoplasty (reshaping the nose), and liposuction (removing fat from specific areas of the body). Some of these procedures are not even surgical, and may involve only some cutting and stitching.
Should I Go for Plastic Surgery?
If you want to go through plastic surgery for reconstructive purposes, then the procedure is highly recommended. Many people frown at cosmetic surgery and insist on ethical uprightness. However, it is still undeniable that some people’s lives are significantly improved in terms of quality. Care must be taken though not to go overboard as identities have been lost in this so called pursuit of perfection.
You also need to consider that plastic surgery can be quite costly. Insurance coverage plans do not usually cover the cost of cosmetic procedures, so you will have to cover the bill out of your own pocket. There are channels through which you can get a loan for plastic surgery, but be sure that they are legitimate and you know what you’re dealing with. Make sure you are financially ready to go through a procedure like this.
If you are aware of the benefits and risks involved and made up your mind to go through plastic surgery, it is best that you choose your surgeon wisely. Ask for recommendations from doctors and friends, and do your research well before choosing a surgeon to trust. Remember that everyone deserves to be and to look their best, as long as the circumstances are right.
